Maintenance Specialist II

Location: Vernon State Hospital, 4730 College Dr, Vernon, TX. Agency: Health & Human Services Commission, Plant Maintenance. Posting #22532, closes 11/03/2026. Full-time, regular, day shift, non-exempt. Travel up to 5%. Not eligible for telework. Salary group: TEXAS-A-13.

About the role

Performs routine, journey-level work in one or more building maintenance and construction trades (carpentry, masonry, painting, plumbing, HVAC, welding, electrical) under the guidance of experienced Maintenance Specialists. Duties include inspections, adjustments, installations of adaptive equipment, wheelchair ramps, safety equipment, doors, windows, and maintaining/repairing buildings, utility systems, and stationary equipment. Operates motorized equipment, completes paperwork, maintains work order records, and communicates verbally and in writing. Works as a team member with other shops. May operate motor vehicles for deliveries and supply pickup. Works under moderate supervision with limited latitude for initiative and independent judgment. May participate in disaster response/recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation, which may require alternate shifts or locations. Eligible for additional pay for work on maximum security locations.

Responsibilities

• Attend work regularly; may work specific, rotating, extended shifts, or overtime per agency leave policy.
• Perform inspections, adjustments, maintenance, and repair on building systems per recognized codes and standards for plumbing, HVAC, welding, carpentry, painting, and electrical trades.
• Use hand tools, power tools, test equipment, and safety equipment for repairs, inspections, renovations, and installations.
• Identify time required and physical location for repairs/renovations.
• Accurately process and maintain records on work orders, projects, and material requisitions.
• Operate heavy machinery (e.g., backhoes, forklifts) as necessary.
• Train others on proper procedures and methods for repairs or inspections.
• Participate in disaster response/recovery or COOP activation, potentially requiring alternate shifts or locations.

Requirements

• One (1) year of work experience in electrical, plumbing, masonry, mechanical equipment, locksmithing, painting, motor vehicle maintenance, grounds keeping, equipment maintenance, HVAC, carpentry, welding, or electronic cabling. Completion of trade school in any of the above may substitute for experience.
• Must possess a valid Texas driver license or obtain one within 90 days of hire to drive a state vehicle. Out-of-state license holders must provide an original certified driving record. Eligible driving record required per HHSC Fleet Management policy.
• Pass fingerprint criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and registry checks (CANRS, Nurse Aid, Medication Aide, Employee Misconduct, LEIE).
• Males aged 18–25 must be registered with Selective Service.
• Minimum age 18 (21 for Waco and Terrell Center for Youth applicants).
• Compliance with HHSC immunization policy and state hospital operating procedures; healthcare workers must be vaccinated per CDC guidelines for hepatitis B, MMR, varicella, Tdap, influenza, etc. If declining influenza vaccine, may be required to wear a mask and take other protective measures.
• Flexibility in work hours; overtime and/or extended hours may be required.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of building maintenance, plumbing, HVAC, sanitation, refrigeration, and/or electrical systems.
• Knowledge of industrial safety, fire, and safety regulations.
• Skill in preventive maintenance and inspections of buildings and building systems.
• Skill in the use of hand tools, power tools, and equipment.
• Ability to perform maintenance, follow instructions, and interpret drawings, schematics, or sketches.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with maintenance/facility team members.

Benefits

• 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees.
• Defined benefit pension plan.
• Generous time off benefits.
• Numerous opportunities for career advancement.

Pay

Monthly salary range: $2,953.25 – $4,365.66 (Salary Group TEXAS-A-13).

Schedule

Day shift, full-time. Travel up to 5%. Not eligible for telework. May require overtime, extended hours, or alternate shifts for disaster/COOP response.

Additional information

• Active duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans encouraged to apply; military occupations related to selection criteria are listed in the posting (MOS codes provided).
• Reasonable accommodation available during hiring process per ADA; contact HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 for application assistance or interview accommodation.
• Selected applicants subject to background and due diligence checks; HHSC uses E-Verify. I-9 documentation required on first day.
• Nearest major market: Wichita Falls.